Squash

Squash traces its origins to the older game of rackets, which was played in London prisons during the 19th century. The sport evolved when students at Harrow School discovered that a punctured ball—one that "squashed" on impact—created a slower, more challenging, and more tactical game. This innovation laid the foundation for the modern version of squash we know today.

Squash is a fast-paced racquet sport played indoors by two players in singles or four players in doubles. Players take turns hitting a small rubber ball against the front wall, aiming to make it bounce in such a way that their opponent cannot return it. The game demands a high level of agility, precision, and stamina.

Although squash has never been a part of the official Olympic programme, it was included as a demonstration sport at the Buenos Aires 2018 Youth Olympic Games—a move that helped showcase its global appeal and competitiveness. After years of campaigning by the international squash community, the sport is finally set to make its Olympic debut at the Los Angeles 2028 Games, having been selected as one of five additional sports for inclusion.

Qatar has long been a supporter of squash on the global stage. The country has hosted numerous world-class events, most notably the Qatar Classic, a prestigious tournament that consistently attracts many of the world’s highest-ranked players and reinforces Doha’s reputation as a key hub for international squash.